By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has said exclusive breastfeeding remains every newborn’s first immunization, and safest source of nutrition and one of the most effective, affordable interventions for reducing infant deaths and malnutrition.
The Mandate Secretary, FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, made the declaration during the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week celebration held at the Primary Health Care Centre, Owners Occupiers Quarters, Kubwa, Abuja.
Fasawe urged nursing mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first six months of life, saying breast milk provides essential nutrients, strengthens immunity and protects children from preventable diseases.
She described breastfeeding as more than a feeding practice, noting that it is a proven public health intervention that promotes healthy growth, reduces malnutrition and gives every child the best start in life.
The Mandate Secretary also appealed to fathers, employers, religious institutions, community leaders and families to support nursing mothers by creating enabling environments, including breastfeeding-friendly spaces in workplaces and public facilities.
“Breastfeeding is immunization. Breastfeeding is free. Breastfeeding is affordable. It is the safest and best nutrition every child should receive during the first six months of life.
“It is the safest and best nutrition every child should receive during the first six months of life.
“This message is not for mothers alone. Fathers, grandparents, caregivers, employers, community leaders and the entire society all have a role to play. When we support breastfeeding, we raise healthier children, build stronger families and create healthier communities,” Fasewa said.
In her remarks, the FCT Nutrition Officer, Department of Public Health, Mrs. Chinyere Ekwueme, advised mothers to initiate breastfeeding immediately after birth and maintain exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.
She also encouraged mothers to adopt proper breastfeeding techniques by sitting comfortably, supporting their backs and allowing babies to completely empty one breast before switching to the other. According to her, breastfeeding benefits mothers by supporting natural child spacing while significantly reducing childhood malnutrition and stunting.
In his welcome address, the Acting Executive Secretary of the FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Dan Gadzama, represented by the Director of Health Services, Mrs. Aderonke Akande, described breastfeeding as one of the most cost-effective interventions for improving child survival and development.
She said this year’s theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthening What Works,” underscores the importance of sustaining proven maternal and child health interventions.
“Every child deserves the best possible start in life, and that begins with initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth,” she said, reaffirming the Board’s commitment to strengthening health systems, supportive policies and community engagement.
Akande noted that the week-long celebration was organised in collaboration with development partners, including Jhpiego, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the Society for Family Health (SFH), Rotary International and the TY Danjuma Foundation.
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